Faculty Position in AI for Observational and Data-Driven Astrophysics

Xi'an Jiaotong - Liverpool University – School of Mathematics and Physics

Position Overview

School: School of Mathematics and Physics

Department: Department of Physics

Position: Faculty Position in AI for Observational and Data-Driven Astrophysics [Open Rank]

Contract Type: Fixed-term, renewable. 3rd contract is open-ended

ABOUT XJTLU

In 2006 Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) was created by the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong University – a top ten university in China. Offering a unique international education experience, XJTLU brings together excellent research practice and expertise from both institutions and gives students the skills and knowledge they need to secure careers in a global marketplace. XJTLU now has over 25,000 enrolled students in both Suzhou and Liverpool in the UK, with plans to grow to about 28,000 students by 2025. There are currently about 2,000 staff, among which about 1,000 academic staff, with an almost even split between citizens of the People’s Republic of China and international passport holders. XJTLU offers our undergraduates and postgraduates over 100 programmes with a diverse spectrum of courses.

XJTLU is entering a new and exciting phase of its development as part of its strategic priorities for the next ten years. Adopting a new higher education model based on the concept of Syntegrative Education (SE), XJTLU is currently opening a new Entrepreneurial Education site in Taicang, part of wider Suzhou, where the Entrepreneur College (Taicang) is located. The Taicang site will be a pioneer of, and an educational model for, the future campus in addressing challenges arising from the 4th Industrial Revolution. Other new initiatives include new working partnerships with Xi’an Jiaotong University, the continued development of the four new Academies, and the exploration of further potential locations to develop the SE model.

With a focus on innovative learning and teaching and research, XJTLU draws on the strengths of its parent universities and plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to China for the UK and other institutional partners. At the same time, XJTLU is exploring future education by blending the educational theory, best practices, and culture from the West and the East.

For detailed information about the university, please visit www.xjtlu.edu.cn.

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

The Department of Physics is part of the School of Mathematics and Physics (SMP) at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU). Research in the Department seeks to explore and explain fundamental aspects of the world we live in, from the smallest subatomic particles to the Universe as a whole. Building on its existing strengths, the Department is expanding into application-oriented areas that can drive technological innovation and help address major global challenges. These include AI for Science, quantum technologies, advanced imaging, and materials-related research. The Department contributes to the delivery of undergraduate teaching in physics and mathematics, while also supporting postgraduate research training through its PhD programme. Current research strengths include astrophysics, high-energy physics, condensed matter physics, materials science, medical physics, and theoretical and mathematical physics, together with interdisciplinary research at the interfaces of physics, data science, and technology.

The Department of Physics actively encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across departments within XJTLU. Beyond the University, the Department benefits from close links with the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong University, while also seeking to strengthen partnerships with research institutes and industry in Suzhou and beyond. These collaborations provide access to complementary expertise, facilities, and broader opportunities for research, innovation, and student development.

POSITION INTRODUCTION

The Department of Physics at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) invites applications for a faculty position in AI for Observational and Data-Driven Astrophysics. We seek a highly motivated and well-qualified candidate with a strong background in observational astrophysics and data-intensive research. Research interests may include (but are not limited to) interstellar medium, star formation, exoplanets, time-domain astronomy, and large-scale astronomical surveys. Relevant expertise may involve radio, millimetre-wave, or infrared observations, spectral analysis, and advanced computational and artificial intelligence–based methodologies. The successful candidate is expected to contribute actively to high-quality teaching, curriculum development, and student training, while developing a strong and internationally visible research program.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct high-quality research and publish in top journals;
• Actively apply for national and international research funding;
• Supervise research projects of undergraduate and PhD students;
• Deliver undergraduate and graduate courses in physics and mathematics in English;
• Actively participate in departmental and university affairs, and promote interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with data science and artificial intelligence.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

We are looking for colleagues who:

• Demonstrate strong commitment to both teaching and research excellence;
• Communicate effectively in academic and professional settings;
• Work collaboratively and contribute positively to team development;
• Show initiative, creativity, and strong problem-solving ability;
• Adapt flexibly to a dynamic international academic environment;
• Uphold professionalism, integrity, and a strong work ethic;
• Are capable of mentoring students in research.

Essential Qualifications / Experience

All applicants must have:

• A PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related discipline;
• Postdoctoral research experience or equivalent academic experience;
• Demonstrated ability or strong potential in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching;
• Solid background in observational, experimental, or data-intensive astrophysics;
• Fluency in written and spoken English.

Desirable Qualifications / Experience

Ideal candidates will additionally demonstrate:

• A strong record of high-quality publications in observational astrophysics, including star formation, spectroscopy line analysis, with computational and AI approaches;
• Proven experience in proposing for, conducting, and leading observations with world-class astronomical facilities (e.g. ALMA, JWST, or comparable major observatories);
• International academic experience and collaborative ties with globally leading research institutions;
• Experience leading or playing a key role in national-level scientific projects;
• Experience mentoring students to produce high-level research outcomes;
• Strong potential to secure national or international research funding.

CITIZENSHIP AND VISA REGULATIONS

Employment at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University is regulated by Chinese Labour Laws, and must comply with the regulations of the provincial government. These regulations stipulate who is eligible for legal employment with regard to obtaining work permits and visas. Please be advised that candidates over 65 may not be eligible for a work visa in the P.R. China.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

• Clear career development path with annual review.
• Professional development training is provided.

RESEARCH FUNDING SUPPORT

• The university provides every new faculty member with a Research Development Fund to encourage them to initiate and/or continue research projects.
• The university will also support all faculty members to apply for national-level, provincial-level and city-level programs. These programs aim to support excellent scientists, both Chinese and non-Chinese citizens, to work and carry out research in China.
• Several of the programs are listed below. Successful applications are based on the applicant’s educational background, academic/research field, research achievements, working experience, etc. The university will provide full support on the applications.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

SALARY: Competitive salary in the market

BENEFITS

1. Allowance: XJTLU provide various monthly/annual/one-off allowances, such as Housing allowance/Travel allowance/Relocation allowance, etc.
2. Commercial insurance: international insurance plans customised for XJTLU staff and family members. (details refer to the University Policy)
3. Paid holidays:
   • Statutory Holidays (11 days)
   • Annual Leave (36 days)
   • Family Matters Leave
   • Paid Sick Leave
   • Marriage Leave
   • Paternity Leave
   • Parental leave, etc.
4. Working visa and residence permit in China:
   XJTLU sponsors working visa and residence permit in China for the staff.

HOW TO APPLY

Click the link for the application.

Applications must be submitted in a single PDF file that includes, in the order listed below:

• Cover letter
• Current CV, including country of citizenship
• Full publication list
• Research statement (2-5 pages)
• Teaching statement (1-2 pages)
• Contract details for three references (2 references for research and 1 reference for teaching) who may be contacted by the recruitment team.

For questions or inquiries about the position, please contact the Head of the Department of Physics, Professor Donghui Quan at Donghui.Quan@xjtlu.edu.cn. For general enquiries, please email HR at Mingwei.Sun@xjtlu.edu.cn. Please quote the position and job ID in your enquiry.

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